What if I Don't Know the Type of Law I Want to Practice?

Many applicants wonder if clear legal interests and career goals are requirements of admission, and the short answer is "No." Most law school applicants have little idea about the type of law they would like to practice. And many of those who think they know are basing their preferences on misconceptions about the profession. That is why the professional aspirations of most law students change before graduation. So having a long-term professional path plotted is by no means a prerequisite to admission.

However, you should not apply to law school totally uninformed about the legal profession. It is important that you convey to the committee a seriousness of purpose that shows you have done some research into the profession and are not applying merely to “find yourself.” If you are unsure of your long-term career goals, that is fine; but, at the very least, mention in your personal statement a couple areas of law that interest you.